Why do sociologists generally reject maternal mortality as the main explanation for the long-term decline in India's sex ratio?

Maternal mortality has been declining, while the sex ratio continued to worsen.

The correct answer is Option 3: Maternal mortality has been declining, while the sex ratio continued to worsen.

Although women face risks associated with childbirth, maternal mortality rates are expected to decline with improvements in nutrition, education, awareness, and healthcare facilities. Since maternal mortality has been decreasing over time, it cannot adequately explain the continued worsening of the sex ratio. This has led social scientists to look for other causes, particularly the differential treatment of girls.

NCERT : "Indeed, maternal mortality rates have been coming down in India even though they remain high by international standards. So, it is difficult to see how maternal mortality could have been responsible for the worsening of the sex ratio over time."